I remember installing iPod Linux on my first gen iPod nano. One of my biggest regrets is trading it in for a brand new iPod nano when they had the battery replacement program. The memories were worth much more than a free iPod.
I remember playing Doom on Linux on my 3rd gen iPod...
It got rather warm, and just seemed crazy silly at the time. For context, smart phones weren't quite a thing yet and capacitative touch screens were an emerging technology.
I still have a iPod. I replaced the battery and the hard drive for a SD card and its still a great way to listen to music over a nice pair of headphones. I plan to make a few more so I have enough for the rest of my life.
Phone + Bluetooth is more convenient but something about the experience of the iPod, perhaps the lack of distraction makes it more visceral.
Modern digital audio players (DAPs) exist. Basically an iPod with an upgraded DAC and amp, and optionally WiFi and Bluetooth for direct streaming from Tidal or local media server or from your phone. I also use mine as a Bluetooth receiver for my TV audio when watching late at night.
